However, it is not uncommon for players to get early releases from their contracts in the modern game.

Etzebeth would be the perfect replacement for Botha at Toulon, who are the French and European champions. The 23-year-old has played 33 Tests for the South Africa since making his debut against England in Durban in 2012 and was nominated for the IRB’s World Player of the Year award in 2013.